Bach's St. John Passion is the earliest surviving Passion or Oratorio by J.S Bach and was first performed in 1724. This version consists of two sections and retains this structure in the versions and revisions that followed in 1725, 1730, 1736 and 1749. Bach added several numbers in the 1749 version, but several arias from the revisions are found only in the appendices of modern editions. So, there is no 'final' version crafted by the composer as there is for the later St. Matthew Passion, no single manuscript as there is for the Brandenburg Concertos, nor a revised printed edition as exists for the Goldberg Variations. What we do have are Bach's various attempts as he went from performance to performance, to try to grasp what he was aiming for - consciously and unconsciously. There is much that is operatic in the music, and the thought that the St. John Passion is Bach's opera is hardly an original one. This recording uses the new edition by musicologist Malcolm Bruno.

Etta James kindles a roaring fire of pure heart and soul in her 1968 album, Tell Mama. For her seventh studio album (and second for the Cadet imprint,) James agreed to record with Rick Hall at the storied FAME Studios in Muscle Shoals, Alabama. The distraction-free environment paired with the improved technology at the studio resulted in one of the greatest albums of the 1960s. The clarity on the record is remarkable, showcasing the emotion and passion she invokes with her unforgettable voice. Tracks like "Tell Mama," "Just A Little Bit," and one of the most successful tracks of her career, a cover of "I'd Rather Go Blind," paint a powerful portrait of the legendary Etta James. Chess Records Acoustic Sounds Series feature audiophile reissues of classic albums remastered from the original analog tapes and pressed on 180g vinyl at QRP. Each disc is packaged in tip-on gatefold sleeves printed on high-grade board.

Revered for his Hammond organ work, soul-jazz grooves, and his three-decade career leading The James Taylor Quartet, maestro keyboard player James Taylor releases his first album of classical works. His long association with Acid Jazz Records continues, as the label also steps into the classical world for the very first time. Recorded solo on a Steinway grand piano, Taylor performs some of his favorite pieces from the classical cannon, with familiar tunes alongside lesser-known works on this beautiful, atmospheric recording. His interpretations show a deep love of classical music. Always one to evolve, just as the James Taylor Quartet introduced Herbie Hancock to the indie scene of the late '80s, Taylor in turn introduces his audience to a new repertoire, with a remarkable, fresh and modern solo classical piano album.

Revered for his Hammond organ work, soul-jazz grooves, and his three-decade career leading The James Taylor Quartet, maestro keyboard player James Taylor releases his first album of classical works. His long association with Acid Jazz Records continues, as the label also steps into the classical world for the very first time. Recorded solo on a Steinway grand piano, Taylor performs some of his favorite pieces from the classical cannon, with familiar tunes alongside lesser-known works on this beautiful, atmospheric recording. His interpretations show a deep love of classical music. Always one to evolve, just as the James Taylor Quartet introduced Herbie Hancock to the indie scene of the late '80s, Taylor in turn introduces his audience to a new repertoire, with a remarkable, fresh and modern solo classical piano album.

Lise Davidsen / James Baillieu - "Live at The Met" / On September 14, 2023, Lise Davidsen became one of the youngest singers ever invited to give a solo recital at the Metropolitan Opera, a house with which she has a very special relationship: "I consider the Met my second home, " she says, "but that doesn't mean one will be asked for something so special as this, so I was very touched when Peter asked me." With pianist James Baillieu, Lise performed a program including highlights from her Met roles, as well as a variety of song literature, plus some lighter pieces from the world of operetta and musical theater. Peter Gelb (General Manager of the Metropolitan Opera) believes Lise Davidsen is "the greatest Wagnerian talent since Birgit Nilsson and Kirsten Flagstad. Her voice in the Met's luxurious acoustics sounds extraordinary, with incredible beauty but amazing power." Although still in her thirties, "she's the consummate artist."

James Richman is the first musician since Leonard Bernstein to graduate Harvard, Julliard and the Curtis Institute of Music, studying conducting with Herbert Blomstedt, piano with Horszowski, and harpsichord with Kenneth Gilbert. He is considered one of today's leading conductors of Baroque music and opera. James was made a Chevalier in the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres by the French government in 1995 in recognition of his contributions to the field of music. Rameau's Pieces de Clavacin was composed over a period of 20 years, the first collection, or book appearing in 1706. These pieces showcase Rameau's lyrical and expressive style, often featuring intricate ornamentation and elegant melodies. The collection is considered a major work in Baroque keyboard repertoire, reflecting Rameau's mastery in both composition and harmony.

From Bach to Brahms, Mahler to Messiaen, any composer worth their salt has written for the pipe organ. And so when James McVinnie put the idea to Tristan Perich to write for the king of instruments, it was perhaps not a surprise that the New York contemporary-classical composer had already considered the possibilities of marrying his signature 1-bit electronic music with an instrument that has reverberated down the centuries. The resulting piece that started with a conversation between the two back in 2016 is undoubtedly Perich's most ambitious work to date. Infinity Gradient is an hour-long symphony in seven movements for organ and 100 speakers in 1-bit audio, recorded for this album at London's Royal Festival Hall at Southbank Centre, where McVinnie was artist-in-residence throughout 2024. The 100 speakers are set across the stage - a recurring element in Perich's work for over two decades, this time featuring four giant subwoofers, 24 medium-sized speakers, and 72 small speakers - against the backdrop of RFH's imposing organ; the piece is as visually striking to look at as it is to listen to. (In addition to being available in stereo, Infinity Gradient will also come in multichannel Dolby Atmos.)

Recording this album with Bob James was one of the greatest life (and music) experiences for me I learned so much from this treasure of a man," says Dave Koz. "This duet project is just acoustic piano and saxophone, in all their raw beauty. Talk about being vulnerable! But with Bob at the piano, all concern goes away like playing on a bed of clouds. I can't wait to perform these songs with him in front of a live audience." "This is a totally unplugged and, as partner Dave points out, vulnerable set," Bob James adds. "Both he and I have had the good fortune to record many times with great rhythm sections and sophisticated production. This time out all that is stripped away, and it's just us. We hope the intimacy of these musical one-to-one conversations conveys the spirit we both felt. It was a unique opportunity for me to collaborate and be inspired by the passionate romanticism of my duo partner.

Double Vision is the award-winning platinum-selling album by legendary saxophonist David Sanborn and jazz pianist Bob James released in 1986. The phenomenal contemporary jazz classic saw them win a Grammy Award for "Best Jazz Fusion Performance, Vocal or Instrumental". This seminal album features a phenomenal line-up of musicians, including Marcus Miller (bass), Steve Gadd (drums), Paul Jackson Jr. (guitar), Al Jarreau (vocals), Paulinho Da Costa (percussion) and Eric Gale (guitars), with the masterful production by Tommy LiPuma. The biggest hit from the album, "Maputo", is widely-regarded as a contemporary jazz standard and has accumulated over 20 million in views and streams. This album will be available for the first time on SACD Hybrid Multi-Channel.

Slow Burn: A feeling that grows with a slow but deliberate intensity. That sums up Boney James' music, career and the vibe of his newest album. The iconic 4x Grammy-nominated sax man's 19th album is another deliberate step on his creative journey. Featuring legendary jazz/R&B artists Marcus Miller and Cory Henry, the record also spotlights R&B's next superstar, October London. With 10 songs, 8 originals plus homages to Herbie Hancock and Stanley Turrentine, Slow Burn is Boney James at his best. CD Digipak.

Double Vision is the award-winning platinum-selling album by legendary saxophonist David Sanborn and jazz pianist Bob James released in 1986. The phenomenal contemporary jazz classic saw them win a Grammy Award for "Best Jazz Fusion Performance, Vocal or Instrumental". This seminal album features a phenomenal line-up of musicians, including Marcus Miller (bass), Steve Gadd (drums), Paul Jackson Jr. (guitar), Al Jarreau (vocals), Paulinho Da Costa (percussion) and Eric Gale (guitars), with the masterful production by Tommy LiPuma. The biggest hit from the album, "Maputo", is widely-regarded as a contemporary jazz standard and has accumulated over 20 million in views and streams. Available on 180g transparent red vinyl with high-dynamic mastering.

Today! Is Skip James' second album, originally released in 1966. The album features James solo on all but one track, "How Long," which includes Russ Savakus on bass. AllMusic asserts, "wonderful vocals, superb guitar and a couple of tunes with tasty piano make this essential."

Pkg:180gram Heavy Today! Is Skip James' second album, originally released in 1966. The album features James solo on all but one track, "How Long," which includes Russ Savakus on bass. This 180-gram LP pressed at QRP includes an obi with notes by Scott Billington, a paper-wrapped jacket and (AAA) lacquers cut from the original master tapes by Matthew Lutthans at The Mastering Lab. AllMusic asserts, "wonderful vocals, superb guitar and a couple of tunes with tasty piano make this essential."

The Harry James Orchestra come at you live from The Palladium in 1997 to bring you a wonderful selection of the great bandleader's biggest hits and most well-loved tunes. Featuring Cassie Miller and conducted by Art Depew, the band were really swinging this night with tracks including 'Blues for Sale', 'I'm Beginning to See the Light' and 'I Get a Kick Out of You'.

Harry James and His Orchestra, led by the renowned American trumpeter and bandleader Harry James, were prominent figures in the era of big band music. Active from the late 1930s to the 1980s, James, known for his virtuoso trumpet playing, led the ensemble with a focus on delivering powerful and energetic performances night after night. This focus is on full display here, with a collection of standout performances of classics including 'I Cover the Waterfront' and 'You Turned the Tables on Me', showcasing this orchestra's dynamic blend of swing, jazz, and danceable rhythms that are rich and vibrant reminders of a sound that became synonymous with the golden age of big band jazz.

Two, a defining musical landmark in Bob James' career and his second solo album for producer Creed Taylor's CTI label, debuted in 1975 and charted at No. 28 in the Top R&B/Hip Hop Albums and No. 75 on The Billboard 200. The album contains the iconic "Take Me To The Mardi Gras," one of hip-hop's most recognizable breakbeats, sampled over 400 times. The album also features a dynamic jazz-meets-classical music mash-up ("Farandole"), a tasteful soul music cover ("You're As Right As Rain"), and memorable cinematic pieces ("Golden Apple" and "Dream Journey"). There is also the notable inclusion of a bonus track ("Here Let My Life"), which was previously only released in Japan. The album will be re-issued by evosound on the 21st of April 2023.

Solid Blue Vinyl. Limited edition - only 1,000 pieces. GRAMMY® NOMINATED Jazz Hands is Bob James' third outing for evosound, following in the wake of 2018's Espresso and 2022's Feel Like Makin' LIVE. Produced by the pianist with his manager Sonny Abelardo, the ten-track album was mostly recorded during the months of the Covid pandemic and featured James in a number of different musical settings. It also features a stellar cameo from the ex-Gnarls Barkley singer CeeLo Green on the sensuous title track and includes production input from the legendary hip-hop turntablist DJ Jazzy Jeff, who rose to fame as half of the hit-making '80s/'90s rap duo, DJ Jazzy Jeff And The Fresh Prince, early samplers of James' music. Blending cool jazz tropes with funky dance floor grooves, blues-tinged ballads, cinematic mood pieces, and sensuous slow jams, Jazz Hands is the Missouri pianist's most eclectic album of his long career. Simultaneously classic and contemporary, it's Bob James at his majestic, ground-breaking, and timeless best. The album has been nominated for the GRAMMY AWARDS® for the category of "Best Contemporary Instrumental Album" - proving that the Jazz legend has no plans to slow down anytime soon.

GRAMMY® NOMINATED Jazz Hands is Bob James' third outing for evosound, following in the wake of 2018's Espresso and 2022's Feel Like Makin' LIVE. Produced by the pianist with his manager Sonny Abelardo, the ten-track album was mostly recorded during the months of the Covid pandemic and featured James in a number of different musical settings. It also features a stellar cameo from the ex-Gnarls Barkley singer CeeLo Green on the sensuous title track and includes production input from the legendary hip-hop turntablist DJ Jazzy Jeff, who rose to fame as half of the hit-making '80s/'90s rap duo, DJ Jazzy Jeff And The Fresh Prince, early samplers of James' music. Blending cool jazz tropes with funky dance floor grooves, blues-tinged ballads, cinematic mood pieces, and sensuous slow jams, Jazz Hands is the Missouri pianist's most eclectic album of his long career. Simultaneously classic and contemporary, it's Bob James at his majestic, ground-breaking, and timeless best. The album has been nominated for the GRAMMY AWARDS® for the category of "Best Contemporary Instrumental Album" - proving that the Jazz legend has no plans to slow down anytime soon.

One of the unexpected paths James takes on his new album, "Jazz Hands," that might surprise a few of his older fans is his collaboration with the legendary hip-hop turntablist and producer DJ Jazzy Jeff. Best remembered for his partnership with the rapper Will Smith in the duo DJ Jazzy Jeff & the Fresh Prince, the duo won the first rap Grammy as well as scoring some big pop hits back in the day, including their 1987 smash, "A Touch Of Jazz," which famously sampled Bob James' classic track "Westchester Lady." Released by evosound on a 7" Vinyl Single on the 6th of October, 2023. Limited Edition of 1,200 copies worldwide.

Jazz Hands is Bob James' third outing for evosound, following in the wake of 2018's Espresso and 2022's Feel Like Makin' LIVE. Produced by the pianist with his manager Sonny Abelardo, the ten-track album was mostly recorded during the months of the Covid pandemic and featured James in a number of different musical settings. It also features a stellar cameo from the ex-Gnarls Barkley singer CeeLo Green on the sensuous title track and includes production input from the legendary hip-hop turntablist DJ Jazzy Jeff, who rose to fame as half of the hit-making '80s/'90s rap duo, DJ Jazzy Jeff And The Fresh Prince, early samplers of James' music. Blending cool jazz tropes with funky dance floor grooves, blues-tinged ballads, cinematic mood pieces, and sensuous slow jams, Jazz Hands is the Missouri pianist's most eclectic album of his long career. Simultaneously classic and contemporary, it's Bob James at his majestic, ground-breaking, and timeless best. The album has been nominated for the GRAMMY AWARDS® for the category of "Best Contemporary Instrumental Album" - proving that the Jazz legend has no plans to slow down anytime soon.

MQA-CD. GRAMMY® NOMINATED Jazz Hands is Bob James' third outing for evosound, following in the wake of 2018's Espresso and 2022's Feel Like Makin' LIVE. Produced by the pianist with his manager Sonny Abelardo, the ten-track album was mostly recorded during the months of the Covid pandemic and featured James in a number of different musical settings. It also features a stellar cameo from the ex-Gnarls Barkley singer CeeLo Green on the sensuous title track and includes production input from the legendary hip-hop turntablist DJ Jazzy Jeff, who rose to fame as half of the hit-making '80s/'90s rap duo, DJ Jazzy Jeff And The Fresh Prince, early samplers of James' music. Blending cool jazz tropes with funky dance floor grooves, blues-tinged ballads, cinematic mood pieces, and sensuous slow jams, Jazz Hands is the Missouri pianist's most eclectic album of his long career. Simultaneously classic and contemporary, it's Bob James at his majestic, ground-breaking, and timeless best. The album has been nominated for the GRAMMY AWARDS® for the category of "Best Contemporary Instrumental Album" - proving that the Jazz legend has no plans to slow down anytime soon.

Vinyl LP pressing. Etta James' approach to both singing and life was one akin to riot and rebellion that included violence, drug addiction, armed robbery and highly impulsive behaviour. She sang with unrivalled emotion and a pain that can leave the stoniest listener in emotional turmoil. The ferocity of her voice reflected her traumatic life... a neglected child, a teen drug addict, a woman constantly entering into bad relationships and an artist raging against an industry and a society that had routinely discriminated against her. Over a career spanning more than half a century Etta 'Peaches' James has become a true blues icon. Widely acknowledged as one of the most important and influential female blues and R&B singers of the post-war era, she has been cited by critics, peers, younger artists whom she influenced, industry insiders and consumer aficionados, as one of most versatile and expressive blues singers. Effortlessly bridging the divides between pure blues, rhythm and blues, rock n' roll, sophisticated pop and jazz with an intensity and passion rarely matched. From Bonnie Raitt to Beyonce, Tina Turner to Adele, Etta James stands alone in her far reaching influence. This LP shines a light on her early career, showcasing some of her greatest and earthiest recordings. From her first single as a delinquent teenager The Wallflower, through to the distinctly Motown influenced Next Door To The Blues we hear just why Etta James is the true embodiment of blues.

Composed in 1915, Szymanowski's Mythes is a three movement work consisting of miniature tone poems based on Greek mythology. Late romantic and impressionist in style, the composer's travels to Sicily and north Africa without a doubt influenced the exotic and sumptuous sound world he created in this work. Mythes is the opening work on this eclectic recital album from James Ehnes and Andrew Armstrong that also features Handel's D major violin sonata - a once popular staple of the violin repertoire, now sadly seldom encountered. The album concludes with a selection of short and sparkly miniatures and encores. There are some old favorites here, as well as new, including James Newton Howard's "133... At least".

BONEY JAMES / DETOUR VINYL LP Four-time GRAMMY nominee, multiplatinum-selling saxophonist Boney James' new album, Detour, marks his 18th release as a leader. Following the success of his 2020 album, Solid (#1 Billboard Contemporary Jazz Chart, #10 Billboard Top Albums Chart), Boney's new record showcases 10 original tracks including "Coastin'" featuring iconic vocalist Lalah Hathaway. Also featured is trumpeter Dontae Winslow, known for his work with the West Coast Get Down. CONCORD RECORDS